Having lost all capacity for rational thought, I'm considering buying a console-type controller for the PC. Specifically, the Logitech F710.

However, the last console I owned was an Atari 2600, so I'm a bit uncertain on what I should look for in a controller, and what to avoid. Any comments / suggestions from those with a bit more recent experience than I?

An xbox 360 controller is the best option. doesn't just obviously get the best support from windows but seems to be the go to choice for a lot of the games i'm seeing coming out that are best for controllers, the fun indie stuff.

Seconding Lhimy. If you're getting anything but a 360 controller, you're making a mistake. Most modern games with controller support will automatically map buttons correctly when they detect the 360 controller (hell, some only work with a 360 controller). This is especially true for console ports.

It is a console port -- the Steam page does claim "Full controller support", but is quiet on details. The manual lists keyboard details only, with no mention of controllers whatsoever, which doesn't really help me much.

Looks like it was originally a PS3 console, which is the sole reason I was considering the Logitech. I do not want to limit myself to just that game, of course. That's just the impetus, coupled with a desire to sit in a chair other than this one for a change.

Rarely, if ever, do I play shooters.

The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller recommendation stand? (Amazon won't ship that to Canada, but presumably I can find one somewhere.)

Regardless, I'd recommend the 360 controller. newegg.ca is probably your best bet for getting one in Canuckistan. NewEgg.ca search results. I favor wired peripherals, but wired or wireless is up to you.

/goes back to FFXIV

Edit: Derp, didn't see you linked to things! Considering Record of Agarest War (I always want to type Lodoss there) had a 360 version, and it looks like this is actually just a renamed PC version of that title, I'd expect 360 controller support. I can't confirm it 100%, but generally speaking if it was ever a 360 title, the PC version's going to support the 360 controller.

Second Edit: Found this quote at neogaf:

New for the PC Build
The PC version of Agarest: Generations Of War will be based on the North American Xbox 360 release and will feature Aksys Games’ excellent English text translation but will retain the original Japanese voice overs. The PC version will also feature both gamepad and keyboard/mouse support along with Steam Achievements and dozens of both free and purchasable downloadable items and additional content.